Then the students were divided into groups of 100, with each of the top ten leading a class to prevent a significant disparity in strength among the classes. Naturally, Cedric found himself in the Alpha class, followed by Alex in Beta, and Gladius in Gamma. This pattern continued until the tenth-ranked Gred, who led the Kappa class. As each group received an additional 99 students, two members from the student council were assigned to each class to guide them to their respective rooms.
Cedric introduced himself, and two student council members introduced themselves in return. A girl with silver hair and red eyes named Daisy, and a tall elf with black hair named Atan, who stood at an impressive height of about 7 feet. Cedric extended his hand for a handshake, and Atan reciprocated, but when he attempted to shake hands with Daisy, she simply looked at him, turned around, and instructed him to follow her.
Atan offered some insight, saying, "She's just like that, even with me. She still keeps her distance, and I've known her for seven years, so don't feel targeted." Cedric nodded and followed Daisy. He couldn't help but think to himself that for someone named Daisy, she was a remarkably cold person.
Daisy and Atan guided the students to their dormitory, a truly grand structure that exuded an air of enchantment. The gates, constructed from magic platinum, added an ethereal touch, while the floor, made of sturdy obsidian graphite, promised a refreshing environment. The combination of these materials, enhanced by mana runes and circuits surrounding the house, bestowed additional benefits, making it an ideal space for meditation.
Atan took a moment to provide essential information to the newcomers. "Welcome to your dorm. A dining room is available, and the academy's chef will prepare breakfast, lunch, and dinner for you every day at fixed hours: 7 am and 7 pm. For lunch, each of you will receive a box to bring to classes and enjoy during the lunch break. Classes will commence at 8 am tomorrow and conclude at 5 pm. Now, your rooms will be assigned based on your ranks. Cedric, being the strongest, will be named the leader of the Alpha class and can choose his room first."
The mansion was so vast that every student was entitled to their individual room. As the leader of the Alpha class, Cedric had the privilege of selecting his room first. Observing the mana flow within the dorm, Cedric conducted a quick scan to identify the room with the best quality and quantity of mana. Once determined, he communicated his choice to Atan.
Nodding in acknowledgment, Atan understood that Cedric had selected the room with the most abundant mana. His ability to discern the mana flow with such rapidity surprised even Atan, and a glint of admiration shimmered in Daisy's eyes. The efficiency with which Cedric navigated the intricate currents of mana coursing through the expansive mansion showcased his exceptional skills, earning the respect and attention of those present.
As each student followed Cedric's lead in choosing their respective rooms, the dormitory became a space where the individual strengths and preferences of the students manifested. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation, and the dorm, now a haven for aspiring warriors and magicians, held the promise of growth, camaraderie, and the discovery of each student's unique path within the mystical realms of the academy.
Cedric stepped into his spacious room, taking in the simplicity of its furnishings – a bed, a chair, and a table. Despite the option to add more furniture, Cedric, having lived in the forest for three years, found contentment in the minimalism. He carried everything he needed within his storage bracelet, rendering additional furnishings unnecessary.
After the communal examination, Cedric, feeling a bit dirty, made his way to the boys' communal bathroom. The dormitory was thoughtfully divided, with boys on one side and girls on the other. A refreshing bath later, he returned to his room and engaged in meditation until dinner time.
As the residents assembled for the evening meal, Cedric, being the leader of the Alpha class, found himself at the front of the line. The chef, Oscar, personally served him. Cedric, intrigued, inquired, "Hello, Chef Oscar. I'm Cedric, the leader of the Alpha class. Why are you serving the meal yourself? Shouldn't there be other staff to assist with that?"
Chef Oscar explained, "It's just for the first day. I prefer to serve myself to gauge the nutrition and quantity everyone needs to develop fully. It's also a way to understand what to cook and to get to know those I will be spending these years with." Cedric acknowledged Chef Oscar's approach, expressing gratitude for the meal before finding a seat at one of the numerous tables in the dining room.
As Cedric settled in, he heard a voice asking, "Can I sit with you?" Turning around, he saw Glenn. Cedric welcomed him, "Yes, you can." Glenn took a seat and introduced himself. "I'm Glenn, a commoner. Tell me a bit about yourself, Cedric."
Cedric shared, "I'm from the Northsword family. We aren't exactly nobles, but our history and estate's strength grant us a certain status." Glenn nodded, having heard snippets about the Northsword family. Cedric continued, "You're quite lucky to be placed in my class."
Intrigued, Glenn asked, "Why do you say that?"
Cedric met Glenn's gaze and replied, "Well, I'm the strongest, and you get to be with me instead of against me." The words hung in the air, creating an interesting dynamic between the two as they embarked on the journey of camaraderie within the academy.